A man accused of masterminding the kidnap and killing of a South Korean college student in Cambodia has been arrested, according to reports from Seoul.

 

Local broadcaster SBS said the suspect, identified as Mr Rhee Kwang-ho, was detained by Cambodian police at around 2am on 27 November while dining at a restaurant in Phnom Penh. Rhee, a Chinese national of South Korean ethnicity, is believed to have played a central role in the crime.

 

The case has shocked both countries since July, when the student left South Korea saying he was visiting an exhibition. On 8 August, his body was found in the boot of a truck near a suspected criminal compound on Bokor Mountain in Kampot province, southern Cambodia.

 

Three Chinese nationals were charged with murder in October, but Rhee had evaded capture until this week. His arrest is seen as a breakthrough in a case that has raised concerns over the safety of South Koreans abroad. Cambodian investigators are now questioning him about his alleged involvement.

 

The incident prompted South Korea and Cambodia to establish a joint investigation unit earlier this month, dedicated to tackling crimes involving South Korean citizens in the country. Officials hope the unit will strengthen cooperation and prevent similar tragedies.

 

Rhee’s arrest marks a significant step forward in a complex investigation that has highlighted the risks posed by organised criminal networks in Southeast Asia. For the victim’s family, and for South Korean authorities, the hope is that justice will now be closer to being served.

 

-2025-11-29

On 11/30/2025 at 5:08 AM, geovalin said:

the suspect, identified as Mr Rhee Kwang-ho, was detained by Cambodian police......................... Rhee, a Chinese national of South Korean ethnicity, is believed to have played a central role in the crime.

 Congratulations Cambodia Police for this murderer''s arrest. 

RIP Korean student.